So many people ask us about what we take in our packs when we are in the back country. One thing that we never leave behind is a survival kit. I truly believe this is one thing a number of people tend to leave out but I encourage you all to add it. It is something we always pray we never need but, if we do, we are thankful we have it.
Years ago my mom made a homemade first aid/survival kit. It was an amazing kit but she put it in a gallon ice cream container. One she could throw in the camper when we went out on family trips or something she could throw in the trunk of the car just to have on hand. It was the Emergency Room nurse in her, ALWAYS BE PREPARED. Well, her idea was great and for what she used it for was perfect but for those of us hiking the backcountry, I don’t know about you, but I certainly don’t want to add a gallon ice cream container to my pack!
On Facebook I am friends with one of my mom’s former coworkers and a dear friend. He posted a survival kit that was given to him by one of his friends. The thing is brilliant and I would like to share it with all of you. It is small enough to throw in your pack or even a side pocket of your hunting pants. It’s that great!!
1. One metal band aid box filled with the following:
2. Sugar packet and boullion cubes
3. Waxed matches wrapped with fishing line, a few hooks
4. Instant protection, a large garbage bag
5. Tinfoil
6. A trout fly or 2
7. Stub of a pencil and piece of paper
8. Aspirin
9. Needle and thread
10. Small magnet to make a floating needle compass.
The metal band aid box serves to boil water and the lid acts as a mirror
You have to have heat, instant protection and internal energy for a proper survival kit.
You can also add a broken toothbrush, flints, razor blade and a very small pocket knife.
With hunting season opening we wish all of you a successful, SAFE, and enjoyable time in the outdoors. Please consider throwing in a few extra ounces to your pack and making one of these. Tape it shut and I pray you never need it but if you do, you can thank my friend Cliff for sharing it.
Sincerely,
The Giving Back Team